6 stays where you can work and relax

Demand for "workcations," defined as enjoying both work and relaxation at hotels, has been on the rise amid the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. gettyimagesbank

By Jun Ji-hye

The prolonged COVID-19 pandemic has encouraged people more than ever to work from homes, hotels and other accommodations, to reduce physical contact with others.

This has increased demand for "workcations," a coined term that combines "work" and "vacation," and is defined as enjoying both work and relaxation.

Booking.com, a leading online travel platform, said its Future of Travel survey conducted last year on 1,000 Korean travelers showed that over 35 percent of respondents have already considered booking somewhere to stay in order to get some work done in a new location.

Keeping in mind this evolving trend, the company has introduced a new Work-Friendly badge to highlight 4.5 million worldwide accommodations equipped with work-friendly features such as Wi-Fi and a dedicated desk space when ticking the "I'm traveling for work" option in a property search.

Here are six local properties recommended for people who want to work and relax without sacrificing either.

Orakai Insadong Suites

Orakai Insadong Suites / Courtesy of Booking.com

Located in the heart of Seoul, Orakai Insadong Suites is a serviced apartment hotel with great accessibility ― it is only a three-minute walk from Jongno 3-ga Station on Lines 1, 3 and 5, and a seven-minute walk from Anguk Station on Line 3.

This accommodation is well-equipped with work-friendly furniture, such as desks and chairs in addition to a kitchenette and washing machine, making it ideal for a spontaneous stay without having to carry a heavy suitcase.

Guests worn out from working all day can relieve stress by swimming at the pool, working out in the fitness center within the property or enjoying delivered food from must-eat restaurants in the area.

Oakwood Premier Coex Center

Oakwood Premier Coex Center / Courtesy of Booking.com

A five-star serviced residence, Oakwood Premier Coex Center, is highly recommended for those who are looking for accommodation in Gangnam, one of the biggest business districts in the country.

Guests can take full advantage of a variety of facilities within the property such as an indoor pool, indoor screen golf and fitness center during their stay, as well as enjoying restaurants and cafes lined around the hotel, which is located near COEX Mall in Samseong-dong.

All of the rooms offer a spacious work area, kitchen including a microwave, washing machine, bathtub and shower facilities, helping guests to feel at home.

Another perk about this property is that guests can enjoy a stay with their pets.

Felix by STX Hotel & Suite

Felix by STX Hotel & Suite / Courtesy of Booking.com

Felix by STX Hotel & Suite is situated in Busan's signature tourist spot near Haeundae Beach, boasting excellent accessibility due to its direct connection to Haeundae Station.

Each room conveniently features a comfortable bed as well as a fully equipped kitchen and work desk.

The property is offering a 24-hour "workcation package" stay for a limited period, allowing guests to stay a full 24 hours from the time of check-in.

Somerset Central Bundang

Located near Seohyeon Station in Gyeonggi Province, hailed as Bundang's central area, Somerset Central Bundang can easily attract business travelers as it is also in close proximity with Pangyo which is known as Korea's version of Silicon Valley, packed with IT companies.

While each room is equipped with a desk and Wi-Fi, the property also offers a business center free of charge.

In addition, guests can relax after work by taking a stroll in the nearby natural surroundings such as Bundang Central Park and Tancheon, a tributary of the Han River.

Incheon Airport Capsule Hotel No.1

Incheon Airport Capsule Hotel No.1 is an apartment-type accommodation within a five-minute drive from Incheon International Airport.

Boasting a modern-style interior design, this fully equipped property offers great comfort with a variety of amenities and facilities such as Wi-Fi, desk, floor lamp, TV and a massage chair.

Guests can easily have their meals in the room during or after work by simply microwaving ready-to-eat-meals which they can easily purchase from one of the many convenience stores or retailers nearby.

Somerset Jeju Shinhwa World

Somerset Jeju Shinhwa World is part of the nation's largest integrated resort ― Jeju Shinhwa World ― and is a premium serviced condominium ideal for those looking for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Among the many accommodation types offered, family suites boasting modern interior designs are suitable to be transformed into a luxurious work station as they are fully equipped with premium appliances and in-room amenities such as large sofas and dining tables.

Guests can truly unwind after work by enjoying activities and eateries within the resort complex, or drive five minutes away to visit Osulloc Tea Museum, an iconic tourist spot in Seogwipo.